AB-63 – Farmer’s Market Permit
What licensed retailers need to know about selling wine at farmer’s markets in Maryland
Maryland created a Farmer’s Market Permit that allows certain licensed retailers to sell wine at approved farmer’s markets.
This permit applies only to wine produced by Class 4 limited wineries and includes specific rules for sales, sampling, and operations.
This page explains who can use the permit and how to stay compliant.
What you need to know
- Available to licensed retailers selling wine at approved farmer’s markets
- Only wine from Class 4 limited wineries may be sold
- Sampling is allowed with strict limits
- The permit must be approved and displayed at the market
Who This Applies To
This guidance applies to:
- Licensed alcohol retailers
- Class 4 limited wineries (as product suppliers)
What Changed
Maryland created a Farmer’s Market Permit under the Winery Modernization Act.
The law took effect June 1, 2010.
Who Can Use This Permit
A retailer may obtain this permit if they:
- Hold a valid alcohol license
- Are authorized for off-premises sales
- Are licensed in the same jurisdiction as the farmer’s market
The farmer’s market must also be:
- Listed in the Maryland Department of Agriculture directory
What the Permit Allows
With this permit, retailers may:
- Sell wine produced by Class 4 limited wineries
- Sell during the official dates and hours of the farmer’s market
All sales must be:
- In sealed containers
- For off-premises consumption only
Sampling Rules
Retailers may:
- Offer wine samples to consumers
Limits:
- Maximum of 1 ounce per brand
- Samples must be provided at no charge
Key Requirements
Retailers must:
- Display the permit clearly at the market
- Obtain consent from the farmer’s market operator
- Maintain invoices for all wine sold
- Ensure all wine is:
- Tax-paid
- Properly sourced (retailer inventory or winery)
Permit Limits
- Only one permit per retailer per farmer’s market
- The permit may be revoked by the market operator
Fees and Duration
- Annual permit
- No fee at this time
Compliance Requirements
Retailers must:
- Follow all Maryland alcohol laws and regulations
- Ensure proper documentation of inventory and sales
- Operate only during approved market times
How to Apply
To apply:
- Complete the Farmer’s Market Permit application
- Obtain signature from an authorized market representative
Applications are available through the Comptroller’s Office.
Need Help?
For questions about licensing, contact the ATCC: 410-260-7314 ext. 4 or [email protected]